Subaru Cars with & without CVT (8 Models: New + Used)
Subaru vehicles have always prioritized the fun-to-drive aspect and offer standard all-wheel drive, bar the BRZ sports coupe.
Although fuel economy isn’t the automaker’s top priority, its CVT-equipped cars and SUVs are relatively efficient.
Like most Japanese makes, Subarus and their CVTs have excellent reliability.
Subaru Models with CVT Transmission
#1 Subaru Impreza
This automaker does not have many sedans, and they (somewhat) struggle to shine when measured against best-sellers from their Japanese and Korean rivals.
A case in point is the Subaru Impreza, sedan or hatchback.
It does everything reasonably well but without a standout quality to write home about; for most drivers, though, the AWD and solid reliability are strong enough pluses to opt for an Impreza.
Regardless, the latest Subaru Imprezas, down to the 2012 model, have a CVT transmission.
Suppose you’re shopping for the most fuel-efficient small sedan; your chances are better with one of these:
#2 Subaru WRX
The WRX has a steep rally-racing heritage and is one of Subaru’s higher-performing sedans – the WRX STI is quicker but isn’t available with a CVT transmission.
Although the regular WRX has CVT, its speed focus means you cannot expect stellar fuel economy from the four-cylinder powertrain.
If you can look past its relatively thirsty engine, the WRX is fun to drive and rides pretty comfortably.
#3 Subaru Legacy
In a segment filled with midsize stalwarts and better-performing, value-for-money options, the Subaru Legacy can seem mediocre.
Unless the standard all-wheel drive appeals to you – an increasing number of rival models are offering AWD as an option – the Subaru Legacy passes merely as a competent midsize sedan with good ride comfort, roomy interior, and segment-average fuel economy.
The CVT transmission first became available in select 2010 Subaru Legacy sedans, with subsequent 2011 to 2016 models continuing a similar gearbox offering.
2017 and newer Subaru Legacy made gains, with every model having a CVT transmission.
Nonetheless, Subaru Legacy’s AWD, CVT, and strong reliability are a solid combination for a family car.
#4 Subaru Crosstrek
Some off-road automakers can claim to produce the best vehicles for dirt roads and rockier terrains with their larger trucks and SUVs.
Still, Subaru is the go-to option for affordably-priced, extra-small SUVs with AWD and higher-than-average ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a rugged, subcompact SUV that goes strongly off-pavement as well as it does on it.
The CVT transmission comes standard in every Subaru Crosstrek.
Considering its off-road friendly nature and standard AWD, CVT-equipped Crosstreks return segment-average mid to high-20s mpg combined.
#5 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In-Hybrid
If you love the Crosstrek but prefer a more efficient powertrain, the plug-in-hybrid (PHEV) variant should satisfy you.
The PHEV with CVT can get you up to 10 mpg more than the gasoline-only Crosstrek, depending on how you drive, and has an all-electric range, ideal for short travels.
#6 Subaru Forester
Unlike the relatively new Crosstrek, the Forester has been Subaru’s longest-running compact SUV, with a reputation for off-roading, on-road comfort, and the ideal AWD vehicle for colder climates.
Its four-cylinder engine, mated with CVT transmission, returns good fuel economy.
CVT has been standard equipment for the 2014 and newer auto-mated Subaru Forester SUVs, while older models did without the CVT technology.
#7 Subaru Outback
While the Crosstrek and Forester fulfill the needs of compact SUV owners, the Outback carries Subaru’s flag as the marque’s comfortable and off-road capable midsize SUV.
Although several competitors of its size are superior off-roaders, and some offer better value-for-money and on-road performance, the Outback remains a compelling, practical choice.
While 2015 up to the latest Subaru Outback SUVs have CVT as standard, older models between 2010 and 2014 had that transmission in nearly every trim, except for the 3.6R.
The Outback isn’t the quickest off the line, but its CVT is smooth-shifting and runs reliably without heat issues.
2009 and older Subaru Outback did not come with CVT.
#8 Subaru Ascent
It’s the final entrant on the list with a CVT, but the Ascent is Subaru’s only three-row midsize SUV.
The CVT is standard equipment for every Subaru Ascent.
Like its SUV siblings, the Ascent has above-average ground clearance for enhanced off-road ability and standard all-wheel drive for better wet-weather traction.
The 8-occupant capacity, nature-friendly construction, and powerful turbo engine are attractive traits for an adventure-inclined family vehicle.
Subaru Models without CVT Transmission
Subaru cars and SUVs that do not have CVT include:
- Subaru BRZ – sports coupe.
- Subaru WRX STI – sporty sedan.
- Subaru Solterra – electric SUV.
The new-for-2023 Solterra marks Subaru’s first foray into the EV market, adopting a one-speed direct drive AWD system.
Still, plenty of automakers with fuel-efficient vehicles offer better prospects to save on fuel with gas-only or hybrid powertrains.
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